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+ servings
Pasta Salad

Ultimate Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

This vibrant Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish, perfect for gatherings and full of delightful flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 3 cups Rotini or Any Medium Pasta Cook al dente to prevent mushiness.
  • 1 medium English Cucumber Adds crunch and freshness.
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes Halve for even distribution.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Any color works well.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion or Green Onions Add sharp bite; use mild onions if preferred.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Provides flavor and moisture.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Adds saltiness; slice them for easy mixing.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Enhances freshness; can substitute with herbs.
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese Crumble for easy distribution.
Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • cutting board
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add rotini or medium pasta and cook according to package instructions, until al dente, typically about 8–10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water for 1-2 minutes.
  2. While the pasta cools, chop the English cucumber into bite-sized pieces, halve the grape tomatoes, dice the bell pepper, and finely chop the onion.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped vegetables. Pour in Italian dressing and toss gently to mix.
  4. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste. Fold in crumbled feta cheese, ensuring even distribution.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, chill salad for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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